Jason Webber’s Post

Football has the power to unite us, challenge discrimination, and foster inclusivity. Dive into our latest article exploring the journey towards a more inclusive game, the challenges we face, and how we can all contribute to #FootballForChangeAU https://lnkd.in/d6RzAvbm

Despite widespread outrage over inequalities across the ideological spectrum, these inequalities persist. Why, then, are we not more united in our determination to eliminate them? Consider English football as an example.  When plans for a European Super League were announced in 2021, fans quickly mobilised, united in their outrage at what they saw as a threat to the fairness and integrity of the sport. Yet, in stark contrast, there is no comparable unity when addressing racism in football. Fans often tolerate, ignore, or even perpetuate discriminatory behaviour. One possible explanation for this inconsistency comes from economist Milton Friedman, who said: “A society that puts equality - in the sense of equality of outcome - ahead of freedom will end up with neither equality nor freedom. The use of force to achieve equality will destroy freedom, and the force, introduced for good purposes, will end up in the hands of people who use it to promote their own interests.” I think in other words, efforts to impose equality can backfire, leading to division rather than solidarity. This may explain why, despite widespread frustration with inequality, there is little consensus on how to address it, particularly when different groups prioritise different freedoms or interests. This view may not be popular, but as the saying goes, "Actions speak louder than words." #inclusion #leadership #criticalthinking #racism

Football has the power to bring us together and create unforgettable moments on and off the pitch. However, it's clear that reform is needed to address deep-rooted issues within the beautiful game. Assistant Professor at LSE, Jan Zglinski believes that introducing new football laws, such as gender parity rules and financial sustainability measures, can help improve sports governance for the good of the game. Let's strive for more transparency, diversity, and accountability in football through legislation. Read more: https://heyor.ca/KSAbTj #FootballRegulation #FootballGovernance

The French National Football Team: Champions On and Off the Field The French National Football Team played a significant role in mobilizing French citizens to vote against the far-right party of Marine Le Pen. This predominantly Black team, which triumphed over Belgium in the Round of 16, gave France a much-needed boost in morale. Their victory led many to look at this multicultural team, representing all French people, and question whether they wanted to jeopardize the nation's unity by allowing racists to change the face of France, driven by hatred. Many citizens who would have otherwise stayed home got off their couches and headed to the voting booths, turning around what was expected to be a victory for Le Pen. The popular Kylian Mbappé and other players encouraged their fans and the French public to vote to prevent the far-right from gaining power, and it worked. France is now too multicultural for a reversal. The team’s influence underscores that the nation must focus on controlling immigration, reforming the welfare system, and fighting crime, not blaming the country's woes on people of color or different religions. France must strive to regain its reputation as a tolerant country where all people who want to be French, act French, and obey the laws of France are welcome. #Football #FrenchNationalTeam #Election2024 #AntiRacism #FranceUnited #MulticulturalFrance #KylianMbappé #VoteAgainstHate #UnityInDiversity

In case anyone needed reminding England are through to another final at a major tournament. One of the things the players and the manager have cited repeatedly is mental toughness; being able to dig in and persevere when things get tough. Rewind to 2021, Bukayo Saka was one of two other black players who missed their spot kicks in the Euros final against Italy. It prompted a brutal racist backlash which left English football questioning itself. Numerous campaigns have been launched to explain the harmful impact online abuse has and particularly racism - the image below is another positive example in confronting this and shows how vital immigration and within that ethnic minorities are. The England team today is made up of predominantly black players and it is no surprise considering Southgate’s emphasis on mental fortitude. As black and ethnic minorities we face challenges of discrimination and adversity often due to our race and religion. But through turning negative experiences into something positive it can build the strength to persevere and thrive, namely: 1. A strong sense of self: Facing discrimination can force you to confront who you are and what you believe in. It can lead to a stronger sense of identity and a deeper connection to your cultural heritage. This strong foundation can be a source of strength in difficult times. 2. Finding strength in community: Shared experiences of suffering and discrimination can forge strong bonds within a minority community. Knowing you're not alone and having a support system can be crucial in developing resilience. 3. Learning to adapt and overcome: Navigating a world that may not always be welcoming can hone your ability to adapt and find solutions. You learn to persevere through challenges and find ways to achieve your goals despite obstacles. 4. Building a "never give up" attitude: Facing constant hurdles can foster a determination to succeed. It can teach you to push past setbacks and never give up on your dreams. 5. Appreciation for what you have: Experiencing discrimination can make you cherish the good things in life even more. It cultivates gratitude for the things you might otherwise take for granted. Racism will always be around but through education and penalising the perpetrators who carry out hate crimes we can limit its impact. How we rise up against discrimination is crucial. The young Arsenal star is arguably the stand out player of this England team now on route to yet another Euro 2024 final - rising up against adversity has played a major part in his success. Well done Bukayo. #england #racism #football #euro2024 #bukayosaka

Each January, as part of a content planning exercise I do, I share a preview of the year ahead from the perspective of recreational cricket. Have a read below if you're curious. I haven't been gazing into the tea leaves, more reflecting on commitments from governing bodies and putting the pieces together. There are thoughts on equity, diversity & inclusion, environment, girls' cricket and growing the game in schools. https://lnkd.in/ekGXTwtJ

🌈Today is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. 🫂As part of our commitment to be #AFoundationForEveryoneAndAnyone it's important that we challenge discriminatory behaviour through education. 📍We do this via programmes like our Diversity Wins initiative which teaches P7s across Glasgow about discrimination and how they can help combat it. #WePlayWithPride | European Football for Development Network

Human Rights in the WNBA: Are We Doing Enough? 🤔📢 As women’s sports grow, so does our responsibility to uphold the rights of everyone involved. The WNBA faces growing scrutiny around human rights issues—from player well-being to fair contracts. ESG in Sports is ready to help the league develop a human rights framework that guarantees players, coaches, and staff are treated with the respect they deserve. Discover how we can build a league that’s not just groundbreaking on the court but also champions equality off of it. #HumanRights #WNBA #Sustainability #ESG

#SportsisAllBusiness What it means to be an American #Employee with #rights, #benefits, & #protections who happens to play #Sports under a moniker called #Athlete What is means to be an #HumanBeing with Personal, #Athletic, #Business & #ProfessionalDevelopment is greater and more valuable than the moniker #NIL #Collective or #PA That's #HIGHEREDUCATION #EmployeeRights #EmployeeBenefits National Labor Relations Board ACLU #TrustTheFacts #NotTheProcess or #NCAA #ThePlayersRep theprepostgame.com